Lugano, Ticino, Switzerland
Travel Europe with a maximum of 18 guests on this Small Group Discovery tour. Enjoy a more personal experience, with opportunities to explore up close and discover places and stories that larger tours may miss.
Discover Switzerland through a journey where the scenery is every bit as spectacular as the destinations themselves. From the elegance of Zurich and the timeless charm of Lucerne, your adventure unfolds across sparkling lakes, picturesque towns, and breathtaking Alpine landscapes. Cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Lucerne before boarding the legendary Gotthard Panorama Express, where dramatic mountain vistas give way to the Mediterranean ambiance of Lugano.
The experience reaches new heights aboard the iconic Bernina Express, an unforgettable rail journey that winds through soaring glaciers, rugged peaks, and some of the most remarkable scenery in the Swiss Alps en route to Pontresina in the St. Moritz Area. Combining world-renowned train travel, stunning natural beauty, and authentic Swiss hospitality, this captivating vacation offers an enchanting introduction to the very best of Switzerland—all while enjoying the warmth, camaraderie, and personalized attention that come on a Small Group Discovery Tour.
8 Day Small Group Rail & Tour Roundtrip from Zurich
Your Itinerary
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Your Small Group Discovery Begins!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel.
Meals Included Dinner
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All aboard!
This morning, experience your first adventure on a Swiss train. Hop aboard and leave Zurich behind as you head for charming Lucerne. This afternoon, join an orientation walk to see Lucerne’s highlights. Admire the 14th-century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss, the iconic Lion Monument, and the charming Altstadt (Old Town) with its quaint streets and painted buildings. Enjoy free time this evening to get better acquainted with this alpine gem.
Meals Included Breakfast
Optional Excursions Available for Purchase
Swiss Folklore. Raise a glass and toast an unforgettable evening of traditional entertainment during this excursion featuring a 3-course feast of local specialties, alphorns, yodeling, and festive Swiss music and dancing.
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Leisure by the lake
A whole day to do as you please. Explore more on your own and get better acquainted with this picture-perfect town, or join an optional excursion up one of the mighty mountains that surround it.
Meals Included Breakfast
Optional Excursions at an additional cost
Mount Pilatus. Take in spectacular views of central Switzerland. Grab your camera and prepare for indescribable panoramic views on this thrilling ascent up Mount Pilatus.
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Alpine Splendor
A real treat awaits today! Discover the perfect blend of spectacular scenery and Swiss charm on this unforgettable journey. Begin with a scenic cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Lucerne, passing the striking Schiller Stone and the beautiful Rütli Meadow as you take in the breathtaking alpine views. Reach Flüelen and embark on the Gotthard Panorama Express train for a stunning journey along the historical Gotthard route to reach the elegant lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening.
Meals Included Breakfast
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Swiss Celebration
Take advantage of a day at leisure to explore more of Lugano; admire the buildings, browse the stores in the pedestrian center, try some local specialties, or stroll along the lakeside promenade. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to discover further afield.
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Mountain Magic
This morning, join the locals for a scenic coach ride to Tirano, Italy, where you will embark on the world-famous Bernina Express train (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for one of Europe’s most spectacular and breathtaking train rides. Travel across the lofty Bernina Pass via Poschiavo, witnessing an array of beautiful mountain streams, glaciers, and alpine scenery along the way to the renowned St. Moritz area.
Meals Included Breakfast
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Sweet Endings
This morning, enjoy some free time in glamorous St. Moritz before departing on a scenic rail journey back to Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant cultural and financial capital. This evening, celebrate your Swiss adventure with your fellow travelers at a special farewell dinner, sharing memories of the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes enjoyed throughout your journey.
Meals Included Breakfast, Dinner
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Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Meals Included Breakfast
What Your Journey Looks Like
Zurich to Lucerne by Scenic Rail Travel through beautiful Swiss landscapes on a scenic rail journey from Zurich to the picturesque city of Lucerne
Lucerne's Iconic Landmarks Discover the historic Chapel Bridge and poignant Lion Monument while exploring the charming streets of Lucerne
Cruising Lake Lucerne Sit back and enjoy a relaxing cruise across the stunning waters of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by spectacular Alpine scenery
The Gotthard Panorama Express Journey through the heart of the Swiss Alps aboard the legendary Gotthard Panorama Express, travelling from Lucerne to Lugano
The Bernina Express Experience one of Switzerland's most celebrated rail journeys, crossing dramatic Alpine landscapes en route to the St. Moritz area
A Scenic Journey Back to Zurich Take in sweeping Alpine views as you travel by rail back to Zurich, bringing your Swiss adventure to a memorable close
Zurich, Switzerland
Tour Inclusions
Guided Sightseeing with an experienced Tour Director
Included Meals 6 breakfasts and 2 dinners
Accommodation 7 nights in carefully selected First-Class hotels throughout Switzerland
Max Group Size 18
Scenic Rail Journeys Zurich to Lucerne, Gotthard Panorama Express, Bernina Express, St. Moritz Area to Zurich
Scenic cruise across Lake Lucerne
From $7,956 per person share twin
*From price is based on departure date 20 Aug 2027. Airfares and pre/post accommodation are additional.
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This rail tour requires guests to walk between hotels and train stations. Uneven terrain and stairs in some train stations and included experiences may pose challenges for guests with physical limitations or those reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m).
One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 23 kg/50 lbs will be transported from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel on travelling days. As for the hand luggage, a small backpack/hand bag containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, etc.) to carry during the train journeys and daily activities is recommended.
Bernina Express
Terms & Conditions *The listed price is based on the lowest price available to book (excluding international airfare). Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges and non-commissionable taxes and fees. Intra-vacation flights are typically included in the price, while others may be available for purchase. Travel agent service & credit card fees are additional. All tours subject to availability at time of booking. For full terms & conditions, contact Wanderlust Travel Experts.
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